Taster: What is history? Who is it for?
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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
- Start Date: 14 Nov 2025End Date: 14 Nov 2025Fri (Daytime): 15:00 - 17:00In PersonFull fee £19.00 Senior fee £15.00 Concession £12.00
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What is the course about?
Join this session to discuss history, what it is, what it allows us to do and how we can all use it for excitement, learn new things and expand horisons! History is much more than you think!
What will we cover?
history and memory: what is the difference?
- history and memory as democratic practice: can it be done?
- history and memory in heritage landscapes
- history and memory in politics
- history and memory in public debate
- history and memory in popular culture
- what now?
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- appreciate the way in which history and memory can be used
- be to examine the use of history and memory by prominent figures and groups
- make a case for doing history and memory work as a democratic practice.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable both for newcomers to the subject and for those who have some background knowledge. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.
However, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and the willingness to learn from others.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The class will be a combination of some sections of teacher presentation and class discussion.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs, but you might find a notebook or an additional electronic device useful for notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Your tutor will share additional course options with you.
Martin Ottovay Jorgensen is a historian by education (BA, MA and PhD in Denmark and Belgium). As a teacher in higher ediucation and further education, he has taught courses on world and global history; African history, Asian history, imperial and colonial history; the history of international organisations; peace and conflict; global issues and international relations as well as how memory is an active dimension in community-building, society, politics, international relations, conflict as well as corporate branding. At City Lit, Martin heads the Department of History, Politics, Philosophy and Sience and teaches across history and politics. He strives to promote history as a socially relevant way of thinking and to give each class and course a horizon beyond itself. Perhaps more importantly, Martin sees the active promotion of robust historical thinking as a democratic practice of vital importance to both the workings of our democracy and the embracing and valuing our multi-cultural and diverse society.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.